DEI course curriculum

Courses about DEI cover a wide range of topics to provide a comprehensive understanding of the subject. Some common ones are:

• Introduction to DEI: Looking at the concepts, definitions, and importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion.

• Unconscious bias: Understanding implicit biases and their impact on decision making, workplace interactions, and organizational culture.

• Cultural competence: Developing knowledge and skills to navigate and appreciate diverse cultural backgrounds and perspectives.

• Inclusive leadership: Exploring leadership styles and strategies that foster an inclusive work environment and promote diversity.

• Equity in the workplace: Addressing systemic barriers and creating equitable opportunities for advancement and development.

• Intersectionality: Recognizing the interconnected nature of various social identities and understanding the unique experiences of individuals at the intersection of multiple identities, including those from historically marginalized communities.

• Inclusive hiring and recruitment: Studying strategies for promoting diversity and inclusion in the hiring process and ensuring a fair and unbiased selection of candidates.

• LGBTQ+ inclusion: Examining the unique challenges faced by LGBTQ+ individuals in the workplace and creating an inclusive environment.

• Disability inclusion: Thinking through the needs and experiences of individuals with disabilities and creating accessible and inclusive workplaces.

• Allyship and advocacy: Promoting allyship and learning how to advocate for marginalized groups and challenge systems of inequality.

DEI courses are offered by a variety of sources, including employers and educational institutions. With edX, you will find several courses that allow you to broaden your expertise in DEI, activism and advocacy, and related areas. Depending on your objectives, you may choose to pursue a bachelor’s degree to establish a foundational understanding in your desired field. Alternatively, a master’s degree enables in-depth exploration of complex concepts and specialization across multiple industries. For those seeking a quicker learning option, fast-paced boot camps provide the opportunity to hone new and existing skills. Executive education courses provide similar benefits and are tailored to meet the needs of busy professionals.

Find the right learning path for you with edX.

Explore DEI jobs

There are numerous job roles dedicated to DEI within organizations. Here are some examples of DEI-related job roles:

• Chief diversity officer: Designs and implements the organization's DEI strategy, ensuring diversity and inclusion practices are integrated into all aspects of the business.^{Footnote 4}

• DEI consultant: Provides expertise and guidance to organizations on developing and implementing effective DEI strategies, policies, and programs.^{Footnote 5}

• DEI manager/coordinator: Manages and coordinates the day-to-day activities of DEI initiatives, such as employee training, diversity recruiting, and the development of inclusive policies.^{Footnote 6}

• Employee resource group (ERG) manager: Oversees and supports ERGs, which are employee-led groups focused on specific communities or identities, fostering a sense of belonging and representation within the organization.^{Footnote 7}

• Talent acquisition specialist: Focuses on diverse recruiting and sourcing strategies to attract a wide range of candidates, ensuring a more inclusive and equitable hiring process.^{Footnote 8}

• Learning and development specialist: Develops and delivers training programs on DEI topics, unconscious bias, and cultural competency to enhance awareness and understanding within the organization.^{Footnote 9}

• Equity and inclusion analyst: Conducts data analysis and research to assess the organization's diversity and inclusion metrics, identifying areas for improvement and providing recommendations.^{Footnote 10}

• Community outreach coordinator: Engages with external communities and stakeholders to build partnerships, support social impact initiatives, and enhance the organization's reputation in relation to diversity and inclusion.^{Footnote 11}

• HR diversity consultant: Collaborates with HR teams to develop inclusive policies and practices, ensuring fair treatment, addressing bias, and fostering an inclusive work environment.^{Footnote 12}

• Supplier diversity manager: Oversees supplier diversity programs, promoting the inclusion of diverse suppliers and fostering equitable business opportunities.^{Footnote 13}

Learn how to develop culturally relevant messaging and increase sensitivity in the workplace with online DEI courses powered by edX.